Piikani group Alberta’s first-ever Citizens on Patrol on First Nation

By Alexandra Noad - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on January 18, 2025.

The Piikani Nation has made history by being Alberta’s first-ever Citizens on Patrol on a First Nation, which is in partnership with the Alberta RCMP.
The Piikani chapter began in October with its first patrol taking place Halloween night.
Alberta Citizens on Patrol Association (ACOPA) is a volunteer-based initiative which uses local residents to work in cooperation with law enforcement, serving as eyes and ears of their community to enhance safety and reduce crime. They are trained volunteers who conduct community patrols in pairs report suspicious activity, given their deep knowledge that allows them to identify unusual or criminal activity.
In a news release, S/Sgt. Vince Bacon of the Piikani RCMP Detachment says this is a big deal for the nation as well as a major step forward in both crime prevention as well as right direction for collaboration between the Piikani Nation and their detachment.
“Citizens on Patrol has been wonderful in making this happen, even allowing us to adjust the ACOPA logo to reflect First Nations representation.”
There currently seven members who are already trained and operational and they are hoping to expand their roster to increase frequency of patrols.
Kimberly Hurst, president of ACOPA said in a news release the Piikani ACOPA received a grant to cover brochures, jackets and t-shirts, but more funding is required to sustain and grow the program.
“We’re hoping to secure support to cover fuel costs for patrols and a cell phone for the group to stay connected during operations,” says Hurst. “Data and fuel costs shouldn’t be barriers to keeping a community safe, especially when you have motivated people willing to step up.”
Both Hurst and S/Sgt. Bacon believe the Piikani ACOPA chapter stands as an inspiring example for other communities on the power of communication and community spirit in breaking down barriers and creating lasting change.
More information about Citizens on Patrol can be found at http://www.acopa.ca.

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